Jax Alums Tony Hernandez and Lilly Burns Launch Counterpart Studios

In a strategic move within the entertainment industry, producers Tony Hernandez and Lilly Burns have joined forces with former MRC TV president Elise Henderson to launch Counterpart Studios. This collaboration comes after the trio worked quietly together under the Counterpart banner for the past year, with Hernandez taking on the role of CEO, Burns as chief creative officer, and Henderson as president. Sarah Madigan, a seasoned executive from Jax Media and Imagine, has also joined the team as chief operating officer.

Drawing from their extensive production experience and strong industry connections, Counterpart Studios aims to bring a fresh approach to the business. Similar to their previous endeavors at Jax Media, the company will offer a range of production services for external projects while also focusing on developing their own original content.

“We believe that high-quality, efficient production is the key to creative success, and we have built a company around that principle,” Hernandez, Henderson, and Burns emphasized in a joint statement. “Our process revolves around the artist/creator, prioritizes flexibility, and delivers premium content to buyers at a competitive price.”

Over the past year, Counterpart has already made significant strides in the industry, delivering drama series like “Dexter Original Sin” and “Dexter: Resurrection” for Paramount+/Showtime. Additionally, they are currently working on the darkly comedic thriller “Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed” starring Tatiana Maslany for Apple TV+, as well as the comedy series “Free Bert” for Netflix.

Internally, Counterpart has three projects in development, including an international action crime thriller, an erotic thriller, and a workplace comedy, all targeted for streaming platforms.

Hernandez and Burns previously sold their Jax Media banner to Imagine Entertainment in 2018, with Imagine acquiring the remaining interest in January 2023, coinciding with the duo’s departure. Hernandez originally founded Jax Media in New York in 2011, marking the beginning of their successful partnership.

Henderson brings a wealth of experience to Counterpart, having worked as a literary agent for prestigious agencies like William Morris and UTA before transitioning to development roles at Universal Cable Productions and MRC.

With offices in both New York and Los Angeles, Counterpart Studios is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the entertainment landscape. The team’s collective expertise, innovative approach to production, and commitment to supporting creators set the stage for a promising future in the industry.

(Pictured: Counterpart’s Elise Henderson, Lilly Burns, Tony Hernandez, and Sarah Madigan)